Layered Information System Architecture for the Implementation of the European Water Framework Directive

Abstract

The implementation of the European Water Framework Directive requires efficient support by information systems. This article proposes an architecture comprising two functional layers. In the thematic layer, existing legacy systems in the water domain, especially for groundwater and surface water, are extended or integrated into a common thematic information system with a unique conceptual approach for master and measurement data, spatial data and meta-data to allow integrated and correlated retrieval, exploitation, visualisation and reporting. In the co-operation layer, the results of the thematic layer are presented and stored and the collaborative work between the various players involved, such as environmental agencies, laboratories and the public is organised efficiently. This article shows how flexible and open information systems based on Internet and Web-portal technology can be used to support and integrate both layers.